Macon’s first black firefighter laid to rest

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – The funeral for Macon-Bibb’s first African-American firefighter was held today at St. Peter’s Missionary Baptist Church.

Johnnie Elbert Forsyth III was hired by the Macon Fire Department in 1968. He resigned as a sergeant in 1977.

“The doors was opened, as a pioneer he went through that door, and opened up for so many more,” Forsyth’s friend Reverend Edward Dawson said.

Members of the Macon-Bibb Fire Department were pallbearers. Their current fire chief, Marvin Riggins said he’s thankful for Forsyth because he paved the way.

Forsyth passed away September 3 in Gray, Georgia. He was 69.